Defending champions Japan has advanced into the last eight of Asian Cup tournament, after beating Thailand 4-1 in group D Saturday.

Thai striker Sutee Suksomkit got the first goal of the match in the 12th minute, however, the powerhouse Japan equalize it just nine minutes later.

Japanese midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura sent a 30-meter direct freekick flying into the top corner.

In the second half, Japan began to kick off their slaughter: Yuji Nakazawa scoring two goals in the 57th and 88th minute, Takashi Fukunishi in the 69th minute.

Winning over Oman in their first group game, Japanese have collected 6 points in two group matches to make last eight.

Thailand has been washed out as the second team in the Asian Cup after United Arab Emirates.

Source: China Radio International